ESTA – ELECTRONIC SYSTEM FOR TRAVEL AUTHORISATION FOR UNITED STATES

ESTA is a mandatory automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. The ESTA application collects the same information collected on Form I-94W. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, though it is recommended travellers apply when they begin preparing travel plans. This must be done by visiting the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta  and answering all the relevant questions in order to submit your application for travel authorisation. The $21.00 fee is payable on all new applications or renewals and is valid for up to two years.

ETA – ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTORISATION FOR CANADA

ETA is a mandatory automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to Canada under their waiver program. Much like the ESTA, applications may be submitted any time prior to travel. This may be done by visiting the Canada government website at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp  and answering all the relevant questions in order to submit your application for travel authorisation. This program will come into effect from March 15, 2016. The fee is $7.00 per applicant and will cover travel to Canada for up to five years.